How to Test Every Kind of Makeup

Some of us are lucky enough to find foundation that always looks natural or mascara that never ever smears. Then there are the rest of us. But with these foolproof tips, you can make sure you love the products you buy—without using testers on your face. (Unless you see them being opened, consider them contaminated with bacteria, says dermatologist Heidi Waldorf.) Here's what to look for, whether you're shopping at the drugstore, a department store, or online.

MASCARA

When you can test it at the store: Don't. Even if disposable wands are available, you can't be sure someone before you hasn't double-dipped. Instead, look for mascara with a thin wand, which tends not to clump and is able to get close to the roots, says Murphy.

When a sample isn't available: Pick a formula that's curling, volumizing, or lengthening (not all three). Black is the safest bet, but if you want to get adventurous, blue and green look pretty against brown eyes, and purple complements green or blue eyes.